AFCON 2017: 6 facts about Egypt ahead of today’s semis

The Pharaohs come up against Burkina Faso in the semi-finals of the 2017 AFCON tonight. Here are some enviable facts you need to know about the Egyptian National team.

1. Egypt is undoubtedly the best footballing nation in Africa. They have the most successful club side, Al-Ahly, and the most successful national team. The Pharaohs have won the Cup of Nations seven times, at least three times more than any other country.

2. They’ve won more AFCON games than any side with 54 wins. Ghana is next with 53, and they will be looking for their 55th win when they come up against Burkina Faso later on today.

3. The Pharaohs of Egypt are unbeaten in their last 23 games in the AFCON, 18 wins, 5 draws. Their last defeat came in AFCON 2004, a 2-1 loss to Algeria.

4. Egypt are yet to concede a goal in this AFCON after 4 games, a show of their mental strength, and will be hoping to continue the defensive solidity that has brought them this far.

5. Egypt have in their fold, the oldest player to ever play in the AFCON, Essam Hadary – He’s aged 44.

6. Essam El-Hadary has won the AFCON four times, more than any other player. 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010.